‘Beyond the Lights’ Star Nate Parker Talks Stepping Up in Hollywood

Actor Nate Parker has long been considered one of the most talented young actors in Hollywood;Â however, one would not know it if his leading roles or the number of films he’s starred in were the barometer. For Parker, that measuring stick has been the ability to log role after memorable role every time he’s on the big screen. Audiences have marveled at his ability to bring sincerity and dignity to every role, but it seems to be quiet appreciation.Â The Great Debaters, The Secret Life of Bees, and Red Tails are but a small sample of his constantly expanding portfolio. Recently, The Shadow League spoke with the actor, star of director Gina Prince-Bythewood’s Beyond the Lights, about how he came to be part of this ambitious project.

“Gina Prince-Bythewood and I have a history together through The Secret Life of Bees,” he explained. “My experience with her is so positive that I just basically gave her a greenlight to call me directly for anything. And that’s exactly what she did. She said she had a project she was working in with this new actress, and that she would love for me to come out and read with her.”